Responding to drug-related harm among South Asian populations in Canada

The impact of the toxic drug crisis on South Asian people is under-researched. This rapidly growing population faces unique sociocultural challenges related to substance use. This includes psychosocial stress associated with acculturation, which may lead to illegal drug use as a coping mechanism. Cultural factors like collectivism, heightened stigma, and the 'model minority' stereotype may further shape risk behaviour, help-seeking, and attitudes towards substance use. There is growing interest in establishing substance use programs and educational initiatives for South Asian communities in Canada. Improving data collection and developing culturally safe approaches to substance use, prevention, treatment, and harm reduction will help guide these public health efforts. Prioritising these strategies would help better support South Asian populations, increase knowledge, reduce stigma, and help to mitigate the impact of the toxic drug crisis in Canada.